The first step...

[kt91]

Well, after months of putting it off, I finally went to my local mental health facility and scheduled my first appointment. I am a bit nervous about going, but I know at this point something has to change. I have been so overwhelmed lately and I am starting to get to the point where I can't handle it anymore.

I still have a little over a week until the appointment so I think I am going to try and start a notebook to keep up with my mood, thoughts, questions and concerns that way my mind doesn't go blank when I see the counselor.

If anyone has any advice about first visits or good questions to ask, I would love to read what you have to say.

[kenster1]

hi and well done for taking that first step in order to get help your journal/notes are great as well and you could take them along to your appointment.all of us get nervous some a bit reluctant to open up but it takes time over a few meetings before a therapist gets the full picture.the last time I had counselling I had a bottle of water quietly chewed on gum to relax every week.i doubt you would have concerns but probably just nervous and anxious that's natural.leave the questions to the therapist because they need to get to know you but near the end of your therapy you could ask about follow up support.

[Sprinkle1]

Good for you, that is a brave thing to do. Be patient with yourself, first times usually go slow, you have to get to know each other, the more you trust this person, you will feel open to discuss your thoughts and feelings, I know I have been there. I had my first therapy over 40 years ago, it was a god send, especially when I went into group therapy, I was nervous, it ended up being one of the best things I ever did for myself.

Now I have just come out of a 3 year battle with anxiety/depression, I was referred to a therapist who specializes in dep/anx. She has helped me So much, I have a better understanding of my illness that has dogged me all my life. She gives me encouragement, praise, love and makes me hot chocolate, how lucky could I get? I encourage you to keep doing what you are doing, journaling is wonderful, I have books I can go back into and read, see how I have grown. Always be good to yourself, listen to that inner voice - your voice- it seldom lets us down. Love and like yourself, be your own best friend. It is wonderful, I have achieved all of this, I am free, I live in the moment and enjoy life to the fullest. So I send you power, strength,, courage, love of self, accept and like yourself. A free person who sends you Love and Big Hugs.......Sprinkle 1.....